Criminal defense attorney Tom Grieve and law enforcement expert Kevin Michalowski review security footage from a convenience store robbery.
A man appears to be leaving a gas station with an armful of unpaid goods when an employee comes out with a firearm. The employee shoots at the robber but misses and breaks the glass door. A man outside of the door gets hit.
Pointing the Gun to Stop Shoplifting
Kevin points out several things the “good guy” did wrong in this scenario. The first thing wrong here is that he’s using deadly force to stop retail theft. He also shoots as the robber is walking away. And Tom points out there are several things prosecutors could have a field day with. He also notes the man shooting is very likely to get sued by not only the guy who was hit but by anyone who felt they were in danger. And worst-case scenario, there are some serious felonies that could lead to years in prison.
Aside from the legal aspects, this incident also shows the importance of target isolation. A man outside of the store was hit, and it’s not revealed until later that he was an accomplice. The employee appears to not have proper training as well. Having a gun is not enough.
